AFC South Preview

Over the next couple weeks, Greg and I will preview each division leading up to the regular season. This week, it's all about the AFC. We'll start down South.

AFC South

Division Winner: Houston Texans (both agree)

Division Cellar: Jacksonville Jaguars (both agree)

Other Playoff Teams: Indianapolis Colts - Wildcard #1 (both agree again)

1. Houston Texans

Greg - The defense might take a step back, but even with Arian Foster's nagging injuries, I expect the offense to take a step forward. They drafted WR DeAndre Hopkins to pair with Andre Johnson outside, and can now put Kayshaun Martin in the slot where he will be most effective. Owen Daniels ought to be healthy once again as well. They will battle the Colts all year long but come out a game or so ahead just like last year.

Andrew - This division has two good teams, Houston and Indianapolis. Where I believe Houston has the real advantage is on defense. They have a game changer leading the way in J.J. Watt, and they play well with the lead (which is often the case). While the passing game may not match the Colts, they have one of the best rushing attacks in the league headed by Arian Foster. I'm not worried about his injuries in the preseason, and Ben Tate is back healthy this year too. I say they squeak by Indianapolis again.

2. Indianapolis Colts

Greg - The one thing that can really derail this team is injuries at the WR position. They aren't deep there, and still rely heavily on Reggie Wayne. I expect the defense to take a huge step forward from last year, however, and supplement the offense more. They should be positioned to possibly win a playoff game or two this season if the running game picks up as they would like.

Andrew - I'm a big believer in Andrew Luck and this offense. No, it won't be like it was with Manning, but it's on its way. I think Wayne, DHB, and Hilton compliment each other well and can wreak havoc on defenses. If Fleener and Allen can stay healthy at tight end, they will have quite the attack. Ahmad Bradshaw was a sneaky good addition too, and I think will play more than Vick Ballard. If the defense improves significantly, I wouldn't be surprised if they jump ahead of Houston.

3. Tennessee Titans

Greg - The Titans season will come down to how well Jake Locker plays. They cannot wait any longer for him to develop. This is his make or break season for sure. They won't make the playoffs, but it shouldn't be because Jake Locker of the offense falters. I don't believe their defense is good enough to compete consistently with other teams' offenses. They should finish at or just below .500.

Andrew - They will battle with Jacksonville all year as the division's worst team. The difference is that I think they should be better offensively than the Jags. If Kenny Britt can stay healthy and Chris Johnson can run wild like he did years ago, then this offense can be dangerous. Jake Locker should be more capable of leading the team this season too.

4. Jacksonville Jaguars

Greg - As I said to Andrew this week, "How does Blaine Gabbert keep winning the Jags QB job? He sucks!" Blaine Gabbert will never be able to take this team to a winning record. They're ceiling is 8 wins, if they had a perfect season. Having MJD back will really only serve to make them seem more competitive. Having a new coach will help them, but I'm not sure how much. They still really need help at QB.

Andrew - The Jags are going nowhere fast and are one of the worst franchises in the NFL currently. I thought they had some hope at the end of last year when Chad Henne took over, but it looks like they won't learn from it. MJD and Blackmon are really the only stars on the team, and that's not good enough.

Preseason Division Awards

Offensive MVP: Andrew Luck (Greg), Arian Foster (Andrew)

Defensive MVP: J.J. Watt (both agree)

Rookie of the Year: Denard Robinson (Greg), Chance Warmack (Andrew)

Free Agent of the Year: Shonn Greene (Greg), Ed Reed (Andrew)

By: The Sports Guys